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Avoid Tick Bites

Sunday, 15 June 2014 09:30

Photo credit: Jim Gathany

Oxford public health reminds certain populations of the Blacklegged Tick can carry Lyme disease

WOODSTOCK – Oxford County's public health department is reminding residents to be mindful of the Blacklegged Tick and the potential the creature could deliver Lyme disease in its bite.

"Seventy to 80 per cent of people have a bulls-eye rash if they are infected with Lyme disease. They also have flu-like symptoms," said Peter Heywood, the department's program supervisor of health protection.

If left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to neurological, cardiac or arthritic health issues, Heywood said.

There are endemic populations of Lyme infected ticks in Ontario, including the north shores of the St. Lawrence River, Lake Ontario, and Lake Erie. The closest to Oxford being the Turkey Point and Long Point areas, he said.

If you go out for a stroll in the wilderness – the best way to avoid being bitten is to cover up exposed skin and wear bug repellant containing DEET, followed by a post-walk inspection of your body for ticks.

If you find a tick bite, Heywood suggests to carefully remove the critter with tweezers, place it in a clean, covered container and submit it to Oxford County Public Health to have it tested for Lyme Disease.

Tick samples can be dropped off for analysis at Oxford County Public Heath at 410 Butler Street, Woodstock.

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